Anticoagulation Service in Eau Claire
You may need to take anticoagulation medication to help prevent excess blood clotting. Warfarin is commonly prescribed and requires close monitoring. Illnesses, many medications and some foods influence coumadin's effect on blood clotting. Regular blood testing and dose adjustments are necessary to avoid bleeding while still preventing undesired clotting. Some patients need frequent medication adjustments. That's where the expertise of the Anticoagulation Service in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, comes in.
Staff is available for emergencies, 24/7/365 by calling 715-838-3227.
Who needs warfarin
When an injury occurs that causes bleeding, a blood clot forms to stop the bleeding. When the injured blood vessel has healed itself, the clot is no longer needed and is gradually reabsorbed by the body. Substances in the blood called clotting factors work to ensure that the blood flows freely and clots only when necessary.
In some situations, the body becomes more prone to developing blood clots abnormally, leading to clots in areas that can cause harm — the heart, lungs, brain or extremities. This can cause a blockage in circulation and hinder blood flow.
Patients at high risk for developing a blood clot can be prescribed warfarin to prevent the formation of a blood clot. Medical conditions that may require the use of warfarin include deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, atrial fibrillation, artificial heart valves and hereditary blood disorders.
A typical Anticoagulation Service appointment
Our service is staffed by pharmacists and nurse clinicians with advanced clinical training in anticoagulation management.
During your visit, you can expect:
- A visit taking approximately 10–15 minutes
- A finger stick blood draw (your INR)
- Discussion with the pharmacist or nurse during which you receive your blood test result, go over any issues related to taking coumadin and receive dosing directions
- Additional education, if needed, along with a printed summary of the INR result and dosing
- Your next appointment date and time
If you are new to Anticoagulation Service, extra time will be spent with you for coordination of your specific needs for warfarin therapy.
Anticoagulation Service also is provided at these locations:
Hours at these locations vary. Call 1-866-532-9560 for appointment times.
To learn more about our Anticoagulation Service, talk to your primary care provider or call us.
